Château La Nerthe is one of the oldest estates in Châteauneuf-du-Pape and extends over 220 acres around the castle. Loamy, sandy soils dotted with large pebbles produce finesse and aromatic expression. The location, near one of the few natural springs of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape designation, creates a microclimate that’s warm in the day but cool at night. This microclimate creates white wines with a strong personality. Hand harvesting is done early in the morning to take advantage of the cooler temperatures and grapes are sorted to remove any imperfect fruit. Fermentation of the Roussanne juice takes place in 60 gallon barrels (1/3 new) and then ages on their lees for 9 months. The remaining varietals are slowly pressed as whole grapes and only the most premium juice is extracted and retained. The must is then aged in temperature controlled stainless steel vats and stored to age on lees. Blending takes place shortly before bottling.